Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (MenoNote, The Menopause Society)

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: The Menopause Society · Published: September 17, 2026 · Accessed: September 17, 2026

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Claims this source supports

• The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) includes bothersome vaginal, vulvar, and urinary symptoms that can affect quality of life, sexual satisfaction, and relationships.
• Unlike hot flashes, which typically improve with time, GSM usually worsens over time without treatment.
• Loss of estrogen at menopause may cause vaginal tissues to become thin and dry, with decreased elasticity and lubrication, often resulting in pain with sexual activity or routine pelvic examinations.
• Burning on urination, increased frequency or urgency of urination, and increased risk for urinary tract infections can also occur with GSM.
• Low-dose local estrogen applied directly to the vulva and vagina is an effective and safe treatment that relieves vulvar and vaginal discomfort, irritation, dryness, or pain with sexual activity; improvements usually occur within a few weeks or months with consistent use.
• Prescription therapies for GSM include low-dose vaginal estrogens, intravaginal dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA; prasterone) inserts, and oral ospemifene; nonhormone lubricants and moisturizers are used for less severe symptoms and can be combined with prescription therapy.
• Vaginal and vulvar symptoms not related to menopause include yeast infections, allergic reactions, and certain skin conditions, so a clinician should be consulted if symptoms do not improve with treatment.